inept
UK: ɪˈnɛpt | US: ɪˈnɛpt
adj. lacking skill or competence; clumsy or awkward
adj. unsuitable or inappropriate for a purpose
inept = in<not> + ept<skillful>
- in: A Latin prefix meaning "not" or "without."
- ept: Derived from Latin aptus (fit, suitable), but via the rare English word ept (skillful), which itself is a back-formation from inept.
Etymology Origin:
The word inept originates from Latin ineptus, combining in- (not) and aptus (fit, suitable). Ironically, the positive form ept emerged later as a humorous or ironic contrast to inept, though it remains rare. The term initially described unsuitability but evolved to emphasize incompetence or clumsiness in Modern English.
His inept handling of the project led to costly delays.
She felt inept at public speaking despite years of practice.
The manager’s inept decisions frustrated the entire team.
His inept attempt at humor fell flat with the audience.
The government was criticized for its inept response to the crisis.